Thoughts For Diwali

By the laws of physics, there is no such thing as absolute darkness, just different degrees of light, and this is something I like to remind myself of: light is more powerful than darkness.

We are amidst confusing times, there is a lot going on, perhaps more than we can synthesise. How do we find our way through it all?

With a pathway of lights to guide the way. And this is what Deepawali means in Sanskrit: row of lights.

A Guide for this Time and Space

Hinduism, although imbued in the deepest spirituality and philosophy, always takes into account the physics of time and space. Understanding that us humans have an allotted time on earth. These festive anchor points act as reminders to grab life by the horns.

As we enter the darkest months in the northern hemisphere, we can become lethargic, tamasic, and seeped in inertia if we’re not careful. Diwali pops its joyful head up at that very moment: reminding us of why we are alive. We are here to be joyful, full of love and hope, brightness and celebration. We are here to seek the truth, and not be distracted by the confusion.

The period of Diwali or Deepawali, during this time of darkness, reminds us also of that constant tug between light and dark.

The Myths and Legends

This moment of light winning over darkness, both metaphorically and seasonally, is illustrated by a few different tales of victory:

1. The victory of Rama & Sita over the demon Ravana as told in the Ramayana: when Sita was taken by the asura Ravana, after much toil and trouble, Rama, his brother Lakshmana and the noble Hanuman, return to Ayodhya, having rescued the beloved Sita. It is on this day of victory - Diwali - that she is brought home.
2. Lord Vishnu coming out of his slumber: for four months a year, it is said that Vishnu Bhagwan goes to sleep. During this time, we should be extra careful, while he’s not doing his usual job of protecting the universe. It is said that by the songs and lights of Diwali festival, he is awoken. Just like the light and divine song will pull anyone out of inertia.
3. And then there’s Lord Krishna defeating the hell-mongerer Narakasura, causing everyone to light lamps in celebration and come out of hiding.

It is at this time of year that goddess Lakshmi is venerated and sung to too; to bring us fortune and prosperity after a lull. And she is the consort of Lord Vishnu the protector, whom Rama, and Lord Krishna are both said to be avatars of. So this really is the time of hope and protection.

The Much Needed Contrast

The contrast as highlighted by Diwali is what allows for dawn after the darkness of night, enthusiasm after a time of apathy, hope in the face of doubt. And what is light if not clarity: the opposite of confusion.

Sadhguru calls Diwali The Festival of Clarity, a moment that celebrates wisdom and truth over confusion and ignorance. And we need to experience these opposites to have hope for what we are heading towards. And to know that we can live amidst contrast; for light, truth and clarity will always be victorious in the end.

Love Selina 

By Selina Van Orden

Selina Van Orden is an Ayurvedic doctor living and working in the UK, for more information atyourbest.one